Fall Athlete Spotlight: Kyle Hill
Learning in one of the most competitive and successful environments in the country, senior cross country and track runner Kyle Hill knows what it means to compete.
Right out of the gate, Hill ignited his legacy as a runner by winning the annual freshman run, following in his older brothers’ footsteps. Already knowledgeable about CBA’s successful running program through his brothers, Hill was excited to finally be a part of such a special and elite community within CBA.
Hill explained that he was instantly able to grow and thrive under Coach McCafferty and Coach Mazzaccaro as a freshman. He quickly learned that CBA was the place where he could take his training and competition to the next level. Additionally, he credits his development to the team environment that always supports him.
“The team environment is one of the best aspects of the program,” Hill said. “Being surrounded by great teammates at all four grade levels really helped me grow as both an athlete and a person.”
Hill also explained the competition for the top seven varsity spots on the cross country team. These seven runners compete in the top meets to bring home a championship. He said that the goal of every CBA runner is to be able to be selected. Now, as one of these top runners for the program, Hill is excited to play a part in a championship run with his teammates.
In order to make the top seven and make the jump to varsity, Hill explained that he had to change his approach to running.
“To do this [make varsity], I became a student of the sport,” he said. “I dedicated myself to it more than I had ever done before. I did all the little things and realized that I wasn’t just training for myself, but I was training for the team and the program.”
Hill knew it was his time to step up with the seniors leaving last year. Filling the void, Hill has confidence in his fellow teammates, and he continues to motivate himself and his peers to live up to their potential. He reflects on the winning culture of the past and how he and his teammates look to uphold this legacy into the future.
“Our main goal as a team this season is to defend our Meet of Champions title and finish as the best team in New Jersey,” Hill said as he and his teammates continue to keep their eyes on the prize.
CBA cross country is currently ranked third in the state behind Union Catholic and Ridge, but Hill said that he and his teammates have already adopted the underdog mentality as they are ready to take what is theirs.
“The title is ours to defend, and we will do everything possible to do so,” Hill said.
Talking about his personal goals for his last cross country season, Hill looks to do everything in his power to lead his team to a Meet of Champions victory. Playing his part on the top seven varsity roster, Hill is more focused on placing well for his team than chasing personal record times. He said he hopes to run sub-15:40 in the 5k and sub-15:30 at the Holmdel course, but he doesn’t want to put a limit on his goals and capabilities.
Hill feels as though he has unfinished business going into his senior year. Motivated from previous injuries that have kept him sidelined and away from running, Hill plans to make his last season his best one yet.
“The future results of the season are uncertain, but one thing is for certain: I will give it my absolute all during my last Cross Country season with this team.”
